Snakes are on the move

Albany -- Snakes are on the move this time of year, and that means an increased chance of getting bitten.

A copperhead like this one, bit an Albany woman and her dog this week. Both survived the venomous attack.

DNR rangers say snakes move around more when the weather begins to cool off. Often they rest on warm asphalt or cement. Many snakes are also slithering around to find a place to den for the winter.

Rangers say if you see a poisonous snake, just back away slowly. "The worst thing to do is to make a very quick motion that the snake might perceive as threatening. You don't want to do that because sometimes they might strike out of fear or protection," said Steve Ruckel Game Management Regional Supervisor.

You should watch where you step in the woods and clean up trash or wood piles near your home because snakes will look for shelter or food there.